Former Ghanaian player Prince Tagoe emphasizes that the strained relationship between President Kurt Okraku and Wilfred Palmer should not adversely affect Joseph Paintsil and other players.
He suggests that conflicts between the Ghana Football Association (GFA) President and certain football administrators are impacting players managed by those administrators.
Tagoe points out Joseph Paintsil, under Osei Kwaku Palmer’s guidance, as an example of a player facing frustration within the Black Stars. Paintsil was notably substituted during the game against Mozambique, despite being a key contributor and winning a penalty for Ghana.
Expressing concern, Tagoe states, “Those at the FA have decided to make some players feel uncomfortable at the national team just because they have problems with other management members who have players in the team.”
He highlights Paintsil’s case, questioning the decision to substitute a player who had just won a penalty. Tagoe urges Okraku to address any issues with Palmer and ensure that players are not negatively affected by administrative conflicts.
“One example, I can clearly make is Joseph Paintsil; which intelligent Coach will take him off after he won the penalty? Kurt, if you have problems with Palmer, solve your issues and allow the player to play football.”
Ghana’s hopes in the Africa Cup of Nations were dashed after conceding two late goals against Mozambique, resulting in a 2-2 draw and elimination from the competition.